Energy forms are either potential or kinetic. Potential energy comes in forms that are stored including — chemical, gravitational, mechanical, and nuclear. Kinetic energy forms are doing work — like electrical, heat, light, motion, and sound.

Forms of Energy
Form of Energy Description
Thermal The atoms and molecules of a substance possess thermal energy. The more rapid the motion of the atoms and molecules, the greater the total thermal energy.
Electrical The form of energy is possessed by charged particles. The charges can transfer energy as they move through as electric circuit.
Radiant Radiant energy travels by means of waves without requiring particles of matter.
Nuclear potential The nucleus of every atom has stored energy. This energy can be released by nuclear reactions such as nuclear fission and nuclear fusion.
Gravitational potential A raised object has stored energy due to its position above some reference level.
Kinetic Every moving object has energy of motion, or kinetic energy.
Elastic potential This potential energy is stored in objects that are stretched or compressed.
Sound This form of energy, predicted by vibrations, travels by waves through a material to the receiver.
Chemical potential Atoms join together in various combinations to form many different kinds of molecules, involving various amounts of energy. In chemical reactions, new molecules are formed and energy is released or absorbed.
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William Anderson (Schoolworkhelper Editorial Team)
William completed his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in 2013. He current serves as a lecturer, tutor and freelance writer. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, walking his dog and parasailing.
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Energy Conservation
Article last reviewed: 2022 | St. Rosemary Institution © 2010-2024 | Creative Commons 4.0

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